GERD and Barrett’s Esophagus

Gastro-esophageal reflux disease, or GERD is one of the most common problems encountered by primary care physicians. It is the number 1 outpatient GI related complaint, and of all the patients with chest pain who have a negative work-up for angina, 50% have symptoms due to GERD. In addition to being common, GERD can also be quite serious, with the potential for debilitating symptoms, severe complications and even a risk of cancer.